Italian Meat Sauce For Spaghetti
A hearty Italian meat sauce with rich tomato flavors, mushrooms, and herbs, perfect for topping spaghetti and satisfying the whole family on a cozy dinner night.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add chopped onions and sauté until the onions are limp. Drain excess fat.
- Add the peeled canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, garlic powder, salt, dehydrated parsley, and drained mushrooms to the skillet. Mix well.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring frequently.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dehydrated parsley. If you don’t have canned mushrooms, fresh mushrooms can be a great substitute; just slice and sauté them with the onions. You can also adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less water, depending on your preference. This sauce is perfect for pairing with Quick Easy Lasagne.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Italian meat sauce over freshly cooked spaghetti, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an authentic touch. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also use it in recipes like Easy As 1-2-3 Lasagna for a tasty twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Meat Sauce For Spaghetti contains roughly 376 calories, with 20g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (75% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1481mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this sauce?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you're looking for a lighter option. You can also use a blend of meats, such as pork and beef, for added flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times if you're using leaner meats.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering. You can also sauté some minced jalapeños or other hot peppers with the onions for a fresh kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
Is it possible to freeze the meat sauce?
Yes, this meat sauce freezes very well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).